Related Articles

Some Christmas trees are so dazzling that they are worth driving across the country for. These spectacular sparklers ignite the spirit of the holiday season during tree-lighting ceremonies, and are must-sees for people of all ages. Start a family tradition or take a once-in-a-lifetime trip to see these towering trees.

The Tree at Rockefeller Center

Erected in late-November or early December, New York City's Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is worth traveling for. The tree, typically a 75- to 90-foot-tall Norway spruce, features a sparkling Swarovski star. Be a part of history when viewing this glowing Christmas custom. The tree, which features 18,000 lights, has ushered in the holiday season every year since 1931.

Metropolitan Museum of Art

While you are in New York City, take in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's celebrated Christmas tree. The 20-foot blue spruce is in the museum's Medieval Sculpture Hall. An 18th century Neapolitan Nativity scene, featuring lifelike figures and silk-robed angels, embellish the towering candlelit tree. Holiday music adds to the ambiance, and a lighting ceremony will put you in a celebratory spirit.

National Christmas Tree

In Washington, D.C., you can behold the National Christmas Tree near the White House. The national tree tradition began in 1923. The grand illumination of the Christmas tree lights by the president is a televised event that kicks off the holiday season. Feel the tradition as you walk up the Pathway of Peace, which leads to the tree.

The Grove Christmas Tree

Head to warm and sunny Los Angeles during the holiday season and view the Christmas tree at the Grove at Farmers Market. At 110 feet, it is the largest Christmas tree in Los Angeles. Get in the holiday spirit during the mid-November lighting ceremony, which features live music and fireworks.

References

About the Author

Elizabeth Arnold has written for a wide variety of publications and websites. Her experience includes writing travel features for "Recommend" magazine and packaging marketing copy for both Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and Warner Bros. consumer products. Recently, Arnold was a staff writer for "Special Events" magazine. Arnold studied English at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Have Feedback?

Thank you for providing feedback to our Editorial staff on this article. Please fill in the following information so we can alert the Travel Tips editorial team about a factual or typographical error in this story. All Fields are required.